Diane Harrelson: A devoted mother
After Charles abandoned the family, Diane became the sole provider for her three sons. Woody described her as “un-f—— believable,” talking about her dedication to raising them despite financial problems. Diane’s strength and resourcefulness were very useful in ensuring her children had a nurturing home.
Diane instilled strong values in her sons, including the value of education, hard work, and faith. She worked long hours to support the family, often sacrificing her own needs to provide for her children. Despite their financial struggles, she ensured that Woody and his brothers received an education and learned the value of perseverance.
Charles Harrelson: A convicted hitman
Charles Harrelson’s life took a dark turn as he became involved in organized crime. He gained popularity as a hitman, with allegations of involvement in high-profile murders.
His criminal activities began with a murder-for-hire case in 1968. Although acquitted in one instance, he was later convicted of the murder of a Texas grain dealer, which set the stage for his eventual downfall.
In 1982, Charles was convicted of the assassination of federal judge John Wood and sentenced to two life sentences. This event shaped Woody’s perception of his father. As a young adult, Woody learned about his father’s crimes through media reports, and the revelations left a deep impact on him.
The struggles of growing up with a criminal father
Woody’s childhood was marked by the absence of his father and the stigma associated with having a parent involved in crime. He often grappled with feelings of shame and confusion regarding Charles’s actions.
Despite this, Woody attempted to understand his father as an adult. He made many attempts to visit Charles in prison, where they had complex conversations about their lives.
Reflecting on their relationship, Woody stated, “I don’t feel he was much of a father… he took no valid part in my upbringing.”
Yet, he acknowledged Charles’s intelligence and charisma, saying, “This might sound odd to say about a convicted felon, but my father is one of the most articulate, well-read, charming people I’ve ever known.”